Open the package

Letting his curiosity get the better of him, James tears into the manila envelope and looks inside. His eyes are first drawn to a necklace. He reaches in and fishes it out. Upon closer examination, the thing is best described an amulet. An onyx stone is inlaid into a large medallion with the image of a scorpion. A thin gold chain runs through an eyelet at the top of the amulet. Staring at the amulet, James feels an almost overwhelming compulsion to put it on. He is then struck by the realization that there was something else in the envelope.

James reaches back into the envelope and pulls out a letter. It is written in flowing cursive on exquisite parchment.

Son-
I know that I have been less than present as a father. You probably hate me for that, and lots of other things. I get it, I even resent myself most days. I'm not looking for forgiveness and I know nothing can make up for all the time we lost. Maybe someday, you'll understand.

The reason I'm writing to you is because I'm dying, son. This day is coming sooner than I had hoped and I had every intention of letting you live a normal life. Go to college, find a girl, settle down, and start a family. Do everything I couldn't. But as things stand, you are my only son and heir. Now, I know you have plenty of reasons not to trust me. Hold onto that and be suspicious of everyone. What you are inheriting as my son is something truly powerful. You can achieve whatever you want, make a better life for yourself and your family. But it will also make you a target for others who seek that power for themselves.

I have more to say to you than could possibly fit into a letter. The amulet should answer the rest of your questions. It has been in our family for a long time and will be of great assistance to you. Wear it with pride and never let it fall into the wrong hands.

-Dad

James tore the letter in frustration. He buried his face in his hands as tears of anger welled up in his eyes. Why? Why now? This piece of shit thinks he can just waltz back into my life after 18 years? After everything he's done? After everything he hasn't?

As James became increasingly angry, he was suddenly drawn to the amulet. As he looked at it, he once again felt a strong compulsion. It almost seemed to call out to him.

Put me on.

James picked up the amulet, staring deeply at its onyx stone.